Police in Manchester went undercover Friday to crack down on unlicensed taxis in the city.

Manchester police said some drivers previously had been cited for operating without approval from the city, but that wasn't stopping them. So police conducted a sting operation Friday.

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"We're running an operation for illegal taxis, for gypsy cabs," said Sgt. Andrew Vincent. "People who put themselves out there for taxi services in Manchester."

Officers posed as people needing a ride. News 9 was there as one driver was cited after trying to pick up an officer near the mill buildings.

"She said she just put herself out there on Craigslist offering rides for $8 in the city," Vincent said. "She didn't realize it was illegal."

Police pulled over six cars and cited five drivers for $200 each.

"We're trying to protect the interests of the legitimate taxi services," Vincent said. "Legitimate taxi drivers run drug screening tests, background checks. And the people who are driving these gypsy cabs, we have no idea who these people are. They are not subjected to background checks or drug checks."

Police said travelers should check for licensed cabs regulated by the city. There should be an official sticker in the window of the taxi.